Historic Kalengwa Mine reopens after 46 years

President Hakainde Hichilema has officially reopened the Kalengwa mine in Mufumbwe District, ending a 46-year period of closure that has long frustrated local development aspirations.

During the reopening ceremony, the President expressed his disbelief at previous administrations' failure to revitalise this valuable resource, offering an apology to the Mufumbwe community for the decades of neglect.

The reopening represents a significant milestone for the region, with Euro Africa Kalengwa Mine investing over US$20 million in the project. Board Chairperson Allan Davies announced that production is scheduled to commence in early 2025, signalling a new chapter in the mine's history and the region's economic development.

British High Commissioner Sam Waldock highlighted the opening as evidence of Zambia's mining sector progress since 2021.

Vice Board Chairperson Mulondwe Muzungu echoed local sentiment, expressing gratitude to President Hichilema for prioritising the exploitation of Mufumbwe's copper resources through the Euro Africa Kalengwa mine initiative.